In today’s day and age people are accustomed to sharing in most areas of their lives. From co-parenting to co-working, the trends point to less financial commitment through collaboration and co-sharing. The boomers response to being raised in environments focused on saving money was to spend when they made it big. Urban sprawl, multiple mega mansions, selection of cars and consumerism drove the economy. The younger generations don’t see the same value in accumulating material items, they prefer to live in cities, use zip cars, share bikes, share houses / office space and do purpose driven work. They know how to use their money to get maximum results with minimal financial commitment. They are more conscious of their impact on the earth and are focused on seeing global change. They aren’t spending on big tickets items and this has affected the economy, business pattern will continue to evolve so it’s important to grow and adapt with the current movements.
Being a social entrepreneur and angel investor myself, I see the value in coworking spaces. They allow flexibility financially because you pay for the space as needed. You have access to conference rooms, private office and community rooms. I especially like the Center for Social Innovation because it is a community and launchpad for like-minded people changing the world. Therefore you have the ability to connect with other social entrepreneurs to form collaborations that help grow your business. They “believe that society is facing unprecedented economic, environmental, social and cultural challenges”. The solution to these changes is innovation, this space offers opportunity to improve our communities and planet. If we don’t evolve our business models we face fossilization, especially in the fast paced tech world we currently live in.
I have also been watching secondary markets such as Buffalo, NY. Cities that were once thriving decades ago are beginning to show a re-birth through the influx of resources aimed at scalable start-up companies. Entrepreneurs, artists, non-profits and creatives are now able to share in what these communities have to offer. Many are equipped with accelerator programs, mentors, investors and think tanks all set up to help expand your business. Specific co-work spaces in Buffalo that I have been watching are DIG and Cowork Buffalo
Another interesting development in the business world is the B Corporation model. “By voluntarily meeting higher standards of transparency, accountability, and performance, Certified B Corps are distinguishing themselves in a cluttered marketplace by offering a positive vision of a better way to do business”. So we have co-share space and then add in a new way of running your business that fosters higher quality jobs and lifestyle. “As the movement grows, it has become an increasingly powerful agent of change. We are passing laws. We are driving capital. Government and the nonprofit sector are necessary but insufficient to address society’s greatest challenges. Business, the most powerful man-made force on the planet, must create value for society, not just shareholders. Systemic challenges require systemic solutions and the B Corp movement offers a concrete, market-based and scalable solution.” Wow – how awesome is that! I am pleased with how the business world is changing, people are taking the initiative to be more transparent, to help others through collaboration, mentoring and paying it forward. Out with the old ego-centered boss… in with the new purpose driven social entrepreneur, creating global impact through the fostering of innovative ideas and collaboration! That’s why good leaders teach that sharing is the key to sustainable success.
~Miss Kiss~
